First day of snow and I already hate it.
Last week I rode 6 out of 7 days with Monday-Thursday containing Tabata intervals. These intervals are like this - after a warm up, ride 20 seconds as hard as you can then rest for 10 seconds. Repeat as many times as possible. The most I did was 8. I wanted to try these just to see what they are like. Intervals in December? Sure, why not? It's just a little something to mix it up.
My overall power graph for the week was a nice incline, with the day's 15 minute and overall watt average being higher than the day previous. For me, 15 minute power is what it's about.
Monday, December 7, 2009
Monday, November 30, 2009
17 weeks to go
Yep, sure is.
Now I have both of my main bikes each near permanently attached to it's own trainer. I've been swapping days to mix it up and keep any saddle sores at bay since my saddles are vastly different from each other.
The actual time on the trainer is still being kept low and I'm trying to continue to push the intensity for the short duration. Typically, I ride between 45-60 minutes a day. Realistically, this is the best thing as I am all but done with road racing. I just don't have the time to train for that sort of thing anymore. Good thing there are plenty of time trials in Ohio! Things can change, but right now I have completely lost interest in road riding in general (as in training for road races). I anticipate that in 2010 I will have much less miles than usual, but I guarantee them to be faster than ever.
The lack of road racing (and associated race fees) will free up some money for much needed (wanted) upgrades for my time trial bike. Damn right.
Now I have both of my main bikes each near permanently attached to it's own trainer. I've been swapping days to mix it up and keep any saddle sores at bay since my saddles are vastly different from each other.
The actual time on the trainer is still being kept low and I'm trying to continue to push the intensity for the short duration. Typically, I ride between 45-60 minutes a day. Realistically, this is the best thing as I am all but done with road racing. I just don't have the time to train for that sort of thing anymore. Good thing there are plenty of time trials in Ohio! Things can change, but right now I have completely lost interest in road riding in general (as in training for road races). I anticipate that in 2010 I will have much less miles than usual, but I guarantee them to be faster than ever.
The lack of road racing (and associated race fees) will free up some money for much needed (wanted) upgrades for my time trial bike. Damn right.
Monday, November 23, 2009
18 weeks to go
The power is slowly creeping up as far as 15 minute average power is concerned.
SST, where two weeks ago was impossible to hold for very long, is becoming "easier". Note, I am referring to my old SST wattage, not a calculation of my current FTP which is obscenely low.
Both of my bikes are side by side in the basement on separate trainers so I can move from one to the other daily.
Weight loss was ok until this past weekend. Rack of Ribs. Oops. Making up for that until Thanksgiving.
SST, where two weeks ago was impossible to hold for very long, is becoming "easier". Note, I am referring to my old SST wattage, not a calculation of my current FTP which is obscenely low.
Both of my bikes are side by side in the basement on separate trainers so I can move from one to the other daily.
Weight loss was ok until this past weekend. Rack of Ribs. Oops. Making up for that until Thanksgiving.
Tuesday, November 10, 2009
Training update
19.5 weeks until the first race of 2010.
I'm keeping that at the front of my mind as I slowly build up my tolerance for threshold riding. Yesterday started week three of training and I've been on a schedule of 6 days on and one day off. Unfortunately, I missed all the nice weather we had over the weekend with only some time to hit the trainer either early in the morning or late in the evening.
The basics are:
1. Get used to being on a bike again. Also, getting used to the aero position again.
2. Slowly introduce short intervals and progress in time, but not necessarily wattage.
3. Once I can successfully hit a 15 interval at the wattage I want, up the wattage requirement and start over.
I'm at #2 right now. Yesterday had 3~5 minute intervals at perceived exertion with a towel covering my PowerTap. This gives me an idea on what I can (Un) comfortably handle without regard of power. Yes, it was low, but I'm aiming for a March 28th season opener. I want a slow build up to avoid burnout and avoid being a Christmas Champion. 2010 is going to be a long season even with the later start than normal and I want to keep rolling late in the year.
Over the next many many many weeks, I'll keep gradually building time vs watts to get where I need to go. With 19.5 weeks until the season opener, I'm trying to lose 19.5 more pounds by then.
I'm keeping that at the front of my mind as I slowly build up my tolerance for threshold riding. Yesterday started week three of training and I've been on a schedule of 6 days on and one day off. Unfortunately, I missed all the nice weather we had over the weekend with only some time to hit the trainer either early in the morning or late in the evening.
The basics are:
1. Get used to being on a bike again. Also, getting used to the aero position again.
2. Slowly introduce short intervals and progress in time, but not necessarily wattage.
3. Once I can successfully hit a 15 interval at the wattage I want, up the wattage requirement and start over.
I'm at #2 right now. Yesterday had 3~5 minute intervals at perceived exertion with a towel covering my PowerTap. This gives me an idea on what I can (Un) comfortably handle without regard of power. Yes, it was low, but I'm aiming for a March 28th season opener. I want a slow build up to avoid burnout and avoid being a Christmas Champion. 2010 is going to be a long season even with the later start than normal and I want to keep rolling late in the year.
Over the next many many many weeks, I'll keep gradually building time vs watts to get where I need to go. With 19.5 weeks until the season opener, I'm trying to lose 19.5 more pounds by then.
Tuesday, October 20, 2009
Indoor time trial series changes
http://www.teamdaytoncycling.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=153&Itemid=85
I doubt they'll have a large turn out for November and December, but you never know.
Race Dates: 11/15/09, 12/13/09, 1/10/10, & 2/7/10
That would be a way to get in the November and December races, but I doubt I'll have much punch by Nov 15 as I haven't begun my training program yet after so many months of inactivity and eating. It could serve as a baseline number. Who knows? I may do it depending on how I feel after only two weeks on the bike leading up to it.
I doubt they'll have a large turn out for November and December, but you never know.
Race Dates: 11/15/09, 12/13/09, 1/10/10, & 2/7/10
That would be a way to get in the November and December races, but I doubt I'll have much punch by Nov 15 as I haven't begun my training program yet after so many months of inactivity and eating. It could serve as a baseline number. Who knows? I may do it depending on how I feel after only two weeks on the bike leading up to it.
Tuesday, October 13, 2009
Math was off, this was race #34
The final Colavita time trial on October 10th was also my final race of 2009. My first race was January 11th so it's been a long season. I rode a bike exactly twice since the last Colavita TT, so expectations were non existent and I didn't disappoint. The cold kept everyone's time a little on the high side and I rolled in with only a 22.9 average, my slowest time trial on a time trial bike. Took third place uneventfully.
It had been a long time since I did work at threshold so the afternoon was spent being sick. I used to get sick after tt's until I trained that out of my system and hadn't been sick like that in two years.
I did take the season series for the 30-39 age group and won a jersey. Nice!
So for the season wrap up:
8 wins
5 second places
3 third places
It looks like I'll be able to actually start training again by the end of next week. Over the winter my tt bike will be strapped to the trainer for hour long death marches and I hope to get out on the road bike as much as I can.
See you in 2010. First race will be early January so it won't be long!
It had been a long time since I did work at threshold so the afternoon was spent being sick. I used to get sick after tt's until I trained that out of my system and hadn't been sick like that in two years.
I did take the season series for the 30-39 age group and won a jersey. Nice!
So for the season wrap up:
8 wins
5 second places
3 third places
It looks like I'll be able to actually start training again by the end of next week. Over the winter my tt bike will be strapped to the trainer for hour long death marches and I hope to get out on the road bike as much as I can.
See you in 2010. First race will be early January so it won't be long!
Monday, September 21, 2009
Colavita time trial September #32
2nd place at only 24.0 mph. There was a headwind coming back that ate my lunch. I was able to secure the overall series championship as I have a 310 point lead over 2nd place (200 points goes to the winner of each tt, 190 for second 180 for 3rd, etc) with only one race left.
Winning the series was an objective of mine from the start of the season.
Next and probable last race of the year is the series finale on October 10.
Winning the series was an objective of mine from the start of the season.
Next and probable last race of the year is the series finale on October 10.
Wednesday, September 16, 2009
Speedy Feet TT September #31
The fact that I had an all time high 15 minute wattage is negated by the fat ass I had to lug around last night.
5th place, my lowest ever placing with a 24.8 average. I guess that's decent since it hurt like shit to even walk.
Originally, I intended to skip this one but decided at the last minute to just do it for fun and a workout. I've not been riding so I had no expectations.
In other news, cyclocross racing is out until probably November, if at all. Too much work, too much moving to be done and too much back and leg pain to even feel like mounting a bike most days.
5th place, my lowest ever placing with a 24.8 average. I guess that's decent since it hurt like shit to even walk.
Originally, I intended to skip this one but decided at the last minute to just do it for fun and a workout. I've not been riding so I had no expectations.
In other news, cyclocross racing is out until probably November, if at all. Too much work, too much moving to be done and too much back and leg pain to even feel like mounting a bike most days.
Thursday, August 20, 2009
Cyclocross!
thy name equals pain. I had no idea what to expect and with all of 12 miles on my cross bike prior to the Harbin Park training Wednesday night, I had little expectations. It was good to see a few familiar faces as April took me around the course prior to the start of the training. Then training started soon after!
We all did a warm up lap (lap = a mile or so??) and took a rest. Two laps were next and my brakes failed on the steep (for me) downhill section of lap one. Kept going and, uh, lap two was faster since I had no rear brake. Back to the start for a 5 minute rest and I fixed my brakes. Three laps were now on the agenda.
The route goes past a picnic shelter right into the dismount for jumping over the barriers. This went ok, but it was on an uphill and I had to push my bike to a flat section to jump back on. Then we weave through trees and a hit a false flat section where due to my single speed I had to stand the whole time.......my bike starts making a hideous popping noise. Up the paved uphill, through the frisbee golf course, down the hill, through the woods, pop pop pop. Tried a second lap and made it to the false flat. Pushed the bike to my car and my rear wheel had come loose (horizontal dropouts and track bolts not tightened enough). Fixed and back on for lap three. No further issues.
Next up was two laps, handicapped. First were us beginners. One minute later, advanced. One minute later, expert. Other than not being good at clipping in just yet on the Candies, I was able to hang with the other beginners...kind of. I suck at right turns and had to make time up elsewhere.
After that, lightning set in and I headed back to the office while the others practiced starts or something.
Cyclocross riding makes me feel like a little kid. Jumping on and off, riding through grass, etc. It's a bit nicer than the uptight roadie scene and the even more uptight time trial scene. Don't get me wrong, I love the road, but I never feel like a kid when I'm staring down a power meter wondering why it's off by 100 watts... ;-)
We all did a warm up lap (lap = a mile or so??) and took a rest. Two laps were next and my brakes failed on the steep (for me) downhill section of lap one. Kept going and, uh, lap two was faster since I had no rear brake. Back to the start for a 5 minute rest and I fixed my brakes. Three laps were now on the agenda.
The route goes past a picnic shelter right into the dismount for jumping over the barriers. This went ok, but it was on an uphill and I had to push my bike to a flat section to jump back on. Then we weave through trees and a hit a false flat section where due to my single speed I had to stand the whole time.......my bike starts making a hideous popping noise. Up the paved uphill, through the frisbee golf course, down the hill, through the woods, pop pop pop. Tried a second lap and made it to the false flat. Pushed the bike to my car and my rear wheel had come loose (horizontal dropouts and track bolts not tightened enough). Fixed and back on for lap three. No further issues.
Next up was two laps, handicapped. First were us beginners. One minute later, advanced. One minute later, expert. Other than not being good at clipping in just yet on the Candies, I was able to hang with the other beginners...kind of. I suck at right turns and had to make time up elsewhere.
After that, lightning set in and I headed back to the office while the others practiced starts or something.
Cyclocross riding makes me feel like a little kid. Jumping on and off, riding through grass, etc. It's a bit nicer than the uptight roadie scene and the even more uptight time trial scene. Don't get me wrong, I love the road, but I never feel like a kid when I'm staring down a power meter wondering why it's off by 100 watts... ;-)
Wednesday, August 19, 2009
#30 Speedy Feet August
The wheels are falling off! Second straight time trial with a power average around 270 and a speed of 24.5. Last night I came in second place. There was a decent amount of headwind going out and at one point I had to come to a complete stop as to not hit a Goose! The return trip wasn't much to write home about, but with the tailwind I averaged 26. Meaning my "going out" average was about 23. Yuck.
Monday, August 17, 2009
#29 Colavita TT August
Due to lack of riding, I opted to skip the "Nationals" part of the time trial and just ride the time trial series. Plus it was $17 cheaper. Plus, I wanted to try to maintain and/or build on my series lead. Warming up was easy due to the heat and I spent the better part of an hour on the trainer getting ready.
Off goes my start time, and I immediately have my highest 20 second power of the entire season right out of the gate! There was the slightest bit of head wind going out so it was a struggle and I only averaged 23.9 at the turn. Coming back was a struggle because of lack of riding at that sort of pace lately...well or at any pace as far as that goes. I averaged around 25 on the back stretch for an overall average of 24.4.
My time was good enough for the win in the 30-39 age group. Like I said in my last post though, the 40-49'ers were fast. I would have been 8th (if memory serves).
Had I chosen to do "Nationals" I would have been 2nd, because there was only one guy in that field. I would have been pissed had I beat his time, but he smoked me by 2.5 minutes so no worries.
That makes 8 wins on the year.
This week I may (may) get to ride a little. Tuesday is the bike path time trial. Wednesday is cross training at Harbin and Thursday is cross training at John Bryan. No riding over the weekend though, unfortunately. That is for sure.
Off goes my start time, and I immediately have my highest 20 second power of the entire season right out of the gate! There was the slightest bit of head wind going out so it was a struggle and I only averaged 23.9 at the turn. Coming back was a struggle because of lack of riding at that sort of pace lately...well or at any pace as far as that goes. I averaged around 25 on the back stretch for an overall average of 24.4.
My time was good enough for the win in the 30-39 age group. Like I said in my last post though, the 40-49'ers were fast. I would have been 8th (if memory serves).
Had I chosen to do "Nationals" I would have been 2nd, because there was only one guy in that field. I would have been pissed had I beat his time, but he smoked me by 2.5 minutes so no worries.
That makes 8 wins on the year.
This week I may (may) get to ride a little. Tuesday is the bike path time trial. Wednesday is cross training at Harbin and Thursday is cross training at John Bryan. No riding over the weekend though, unfortunately. That is for sure.
Wednesday, August 12, 2009
Make or break
Next year is going to be a make or break year for racing. It's pretty apparent that I've been able to skate through the 30-39 age group relatively unscathed. The 40-49 won't be as easy and starting January 1st, I am 40 years old as far as USA Cycling is concerned. Whether it's the local events or the higher caliber ones, the 40+ guys can ride.
Here is a partial hit list of 40-49 locals who eat me up, and if I forget someone, don't worry, you'll kick my ass soon enough!:
Francis Manfred
Peter Wimberg
Mike Abney
Vince Clune
Shayne Dillinger
Todd Woehler
Kurt Spoerle
Jamie Raddin
The first two guys on the list are regular 27-28mph guys and it doesn't get easier from there.
So now that I'll be forced to "cat up" in age group, it will put quite a bit of pressure on me to keep working on power (AND THAT STUPID POWER TO WEIGHT RATIO) over the winter. The power and my position are cool, but it's the whole w/kg that needs work. Luckily, good lord willing and creek don't rise, the days of sitting in the car for 2+ hours per day are nearing a close. Trading an hour car commute (on a good day, it's been a three hour one way drive before) for a 15 minute BIKE commute should help me mentally and physically. If it doesn't, well that's something best left for professionals to handle. Maybe then I can get back to riding a little more than two to three days per week. It's put an awful strain on my brain and my waistband.
Here is a partial hit list of 40-49 locals who eat me up, and if I forget someone, don't worry, you'll kick my ass soon enough!:
Francis Manfred
Peter Wimberg
Mike Abney
Vince Clune
Shayne Dillinger
Todd Woehler
Kurt Spoerle
Jamie Raddin
The first two guys on the list are regular 27-28mph guys and it doesn't get easier from there.
So now that I'll be forced to "cat up" in age group, it will put quite a bit of pressure on me to keep working on power (AND THAT STUPID POWER TO WEIGHT RATIO) over the winter. The power and my position are cool, but it's the whole w/kg that needs work. Luckily, good lord willing and creek don't rise, the days of sitting in the car for 2+ hours per day are nearing a close. Trading an hour car commute (on a good day, it's been a three hour one way drive before) for a 15 minute BIKE commute should help me mentally and physically. If it doesn't, well that's something best left for professionals to handle. Maybe then I can get back to riding a little more than two to three days per week. It's put an awful strain on my brain and my waistband.
Wednesday, August 5, 2009
#28 Pur tour cat 4
A Saturday race that takes me until Wednesday to have the 10 minutes to write about it?
There were 50 starters to the race, but on this course it could handle much more. A couple of years ago the 3/4 race I was in had 79 riders if memory serves. The course, counterclockwise, has only one turn then the rest is sweeping curves. My object was this, be in the front at the base of the climb and fall back by the top. Recover the downhill and work my way back to the front on the flat.
Well, reality is different.
Not knocking anyone in particular, and not saying I know jack squat about racing (which I don't), but cat 4's have a habit of not attacking, not working and start stopping until the bunch sprint. I don't sprint, I know I don't sprint so I just go into races and do just the opposite of everyone else in the race. It causes me to get dropped, but I don't like paying that kind of money to have a dangerous and boring group ride.
10 seconds into the very first lap, no one decides to pull so I go to the front and pull the first 1.75 laps to the 2nd climb. THEN I start my objective. It worked just fine for the 5-6 laps, until some guy who was on the front slows down and swerves way right and cutting off half the field. If we all weren't paying attention, half of the field could have gone down in the heap. Luckily, the other half was going quite slow as we were at the top of the hill. By this point I was gassed from the hill, but frustrated from the "racing", I pulled out my old school anger card and went to the front and pulled...
Mistake.
I used to have the ability to attack or pull hard and recover quick. That's not working this year, so the end result was only to destroy myself with the pull. I couldn't stay with the field the next time up the hill so I rode the last 3 laps solo as hard as I could. Finished dead last, with two people dnf'ing, in 48th place.
The good news is, is that the cross bike is scheduled for delivery today! Actually it was here yesterday but I wasn't so I could not sign for it.
There were 50 starters to the race, but on this course it could handle much more. A couple of years ago the 3/4 race I was in had 79 riders if memory serves. The course, counterclockwise, has only one turn then the rest is sweeping curves. My object was this, be in the front at the base of the climb and fall back by the top. Recover the downhill and work my way back to the front on the flat.
Well, reality is different.
Not knocking anyone in particular, and not saying I know jack squat about racing (which I don't), but cat 4's have a habit of not attacking, not working and start stopping until the bunch sprint. I don't sprint, I know I don't sprint so I just go into races and do just the opposite of everyone else in the race. It causes me to get dropped, but I don't like paying that kind of money to have a dangerous and boring group ride.
10 seconds into the very first lap, no one decides to pull so I go to the front and pull the first 1.75 laps to the 2nd climb. THEN I start my objective. It worked just fine for the 5-6 laps, until some guy who was on the front slows down and swerves way right and cutting off half the field. If we all weren't paying attention, half of the field could have gone down in the heap. Luckily, the other half was going quite slow as we were at the top of the hill. By this point I was gassed from the hill, but frustrated from the "racing", I pulled out my old school anger card and went to the front and pulled...
Mistake.
I used to have the ability to attack or pull hard and recover quick. That's not working this year, so the end result was only to destroy myself with the pull. I couldn't stay with the field the next time up the hill so I rode the last 3 laps solo as hard as I could. Finished dead last, with two people dnf'ing, in 48th place.
The good news is, is that the cross bike is scheduled for delivery today! Actually it was here yesterday but I wasn't so I could not sign for it.
Wednesday, July 29, 2009
#27 Tuesday crit
No racing last weekend. I was able to get about 4 hours on the bike between Saturday and Sunday, so I guess that's cool. 1.5 of it was on a trainer at an obnoxious hour though.
For the final two Team Dayton Tuesday crits, they changed it up and the B group had the course to themselves for 30 minutes of fun. After such a long day yesterday, I can't even remember how many people started the race. I knew there were more than a few that I could drop quick, so I went right to the front and led most of the first two laps. Then it came down to one guy in an Ireland jersey, one woman from Krietler, me and 6-7 team Dayton people.
/rant about training crits
Training crits are for training yourself. When 95% of the field is from your team it's pretty stupid to think you are there to practice team tactics. It just doesn't work and leads to (this term I hate) negative racing. A couple of years ago, we would just attack each other for the training of the whole thing.
/ok, better
The guy in the Ireland jersey spent a lot of time pulling everyone, but not attacking.
David Rich Jr, pedaled hard for 3 seconds and looked back. Again. Again. Again.
David was the only one who even feigned an attack.
Every time I went to the front I tried to hit the corners hard as I feel real comfortable racing there and am pretty confident in the corners. It's just the sprint I suck at. Which leads to...
Last lap bell and I find myself on the front. No big deal, so the plan was to hit corner 3 hard and see what happens. Couldn't shake anyone and most of them passed me by the rise at corner 4. It was a good workout though.
For the final two Team Dayton Tuesday crits, they changed it up and the B group had the course to themselves for 30 minutes of fun. After such a long day yesterday, I can't even remember how many people started the race. I knew there were more than a few that I could drop quick, so I went right to the front and led most of the first two laps. Then it came down to one guy in an Ireland jersey, one woman from Krietler, me and 6-7 team Dayton people.
/rant about training crits
Training crits are for training yourself. When 95% of the field is from your team it's pretty stupid to think you are there to practice team tactics. It just doesn't work and leads to (this term I hate) negative racing. A couple of years ago, we would just attack each other for the training of the whole thing.
/ok, better
The guy in the Ireland jersey spent a lot of time pulling everyone, but not attacking.
David Rich Jr, pedaled hard for 3 seconds and looked back. Again. Again. Again.
David was the only one who even feigned an attack.
Every time I went to the front I tried to hit the corners hard as I feel real comfortable racing there and am pretty confident in the corners. It's just the sprint I suck at. Which leads to...
Last lap bell and I find myself on the front. No big deal, so the plan was to hit corner 3 hard and see what happens. Couldn't shake anyone and most of them passed me by the rise at corner 4. It was a good workout though.
Tuesday, July 21, 2009
#26 speedy feet tt July
Largest group yet to this time trial. In another long winded blog post, I got 3rd overall. 10 seconds separated the top three. Speed was 25.5, power was 280.
Sunday, July 19, 2009
Tuesday, July 14, 2009
#24 training criterium
It hurt like a race, was held on a race course and I didn't win. So therefore, it was a race. I chose the B race because I wanted to at least feel like I could be a factor longer than three seconds. There were maybe 25 B riders.
Really I was there for training and not to try to win so I kept floating around, hitting corners hard and making little accelerations. During one of my jumps, I caused a break of three riders. Oops. During another jump, I caused two more riders to bridge the gap. Then it was down to the rest of us. Half way through it was down to five of us in the "chase" group, a half lap behind the leaders. I continued to not play nice and hit the corners, jumped and screwed around for the workout. On the last lap, one kid took off and no one chased (I was sitting last wheel, getting ready for my own attack). He was gone, so then I took off on corner 3 and rode in hard ahead of the rest of our little group.
Good training day. We'll see what happens when it's for real this weekend.
Really I was there for training and not to try to win so I kept floating around, hitting corners hard and making little accelerations. During one of my jumps, I caused a break of three riders. Oops. During another jump, I caused two more riders to bridge the gap. Then it was down to the rest of us. Half way through it was down to five of us in the "chase" group, a half lap behind the leaders. I continued to not play nice and hit the corners, jumped and screwed around for the workout. On the last lap, one kid took off and no one chased (I was sitting last wheel, getting ready for my own attack). He was gone, so then I took off on corner 3 and rode in hard ahead of the rest of our little group.
Good training day. We'll see what happens when it's for real this weekend.
Monday, July 13, 2009
#23 Colavita TT July
Not much to say about this one. The weather played a factor into the slower times. I rolled a 24.5 average and was the only one to break 30 minutes in my division. 7th tt win of the year.
Won some Hammer Gel and some Heed. My cupboard overfloweth with Heed. I like that.
Won some Hammer Gel and some Heed. My cupboard overfloweth with Heed. I like that.
Thursday, July 9, 2009
#22 Blue Streak
Not counting the HPV's, I was 10th out of 70+. Everyone had good times last night and I shaved well over a minute on my personal best, rolling in with a 25.92 mph average. 3rd in my age group of 30-39.
Big ride by Kyle Lyman, going over 27mph with the only aero gear being a skinsuit and shrinkwrap on his helmet (that is, if he rode the bike he was warming up on...his road bike) - Team Dayton, get that guy a tt bike. Jeez.
Results:
http://www.speedy-feet.com/2009/0708/BlueStreak.htm
Big ride by Kyle Lyman, going over 27mph with the only aero gear being a skinsuit and shrinkwrap on his helmet (that is, if he rode the bike he was warming up on...his road bike) - Team Dayton, get that guy a tt bike. Jeez.
Results:
http://www.speedy-feet.com/2009/0708/BlueStreak.htm
Wednesday, July 1, 2009
Half year review
Happy July? It's cold out...
This is just a small review of the half season that it's been.
Mileage wise, I am way off the pace. Due to everything that's been going on I just haven't had the time or energy to put as many miles on as I would like. Right now, I'm at 3,154.91 for the year.
Running half year totals:
2009 - 3,154.91
2008 - 4,013.80
2007 - 3,769.5
2006 - 4089.47
2005 - 4,455.07
On the road racing front, I've been complete crap. Six races - 3 dnf, 2 last places and 21st place out of 25.
Time trials on the other hand have been going well. A nice way to start the year was winning the series of indoor TT's for my age group. In 12 outdoor time trials, I have 6 wins, two 2nds, two 4ths and two 5ths. My new position, skinsuit, shoe covers and front wheel have made up the difference of my declining health, training and increasing weight.
So that makes 21 races right now. With the potential addition of cross races and the rest of the season's time trials, I should have a decent number of races by year's end. That's not even counting crits, as I'll do a couple of them for fun.
In the meantime, I'll keep plugging away trying to get dropped less and less on group rides, try to get my TT speed up and work on the weight.
This is just a small review of the half season that it's been.
Mileage wise, I am way off the pace. Due to everything that's been going on I just haven't had the time or energy to put as many miles on as I would like. Right now, I'm at 3,154.91 for the year.
Running half year totals:
2009 - 3,154.91
2008 - 4,013.80
2007 - 3,769.5
2006 - 4089.47
2005 - 4,455.07
On the road racing front, I've been complete crap. Six races - 3 dnf, 2 last places and 21st place out of 25.
Time trials on the other hand have been going well. A nice way to start the year was winning the series of indoor TT's for my age group. In 12 outdoor time trials, I have 6 wins, two 2nds, two 4ths and two 5ths. My new position, skinsuit, shoe covers and front wheel have made up the difference of my declining health, training and increasing weight.
So that makes 21 races right now. With the potential addition of cross races and the rest of the season's time trials, I should have a decent number of races by year's end. That's not even counting crits, as I'll do a couple of them for fun.
In the meantime, I'll keep plugging away trying to get dropped less and less on group rides, try to get my TT speed up and work on the weight.
Cyclocross
From the looks of it, cross racing is becoming more popular than road racing. What is a guy to do? Well, buy a cross bike and hit the dirt/grass/sand/pavement!
Now I'm getting pricing on a singlespeed cross bike that I can use for adventure racing and commuting (whenever I move) as well as cross races. That should help retain some fitness over the late fall/early winter season and stave off some of the trainer riding.
One nice thing about cross races is that there are more categories than road racing. I can race beginner 35+ to start. Races start in late September.
How am I going to mount my powertap on a singlespeed cross bike though??? HA
Now I'm getting pricing on a singlespeed cross bike that I can use for adventure racing and commuting (whenever I move) as well as cross races. That should help retain some fitness over the late fall/early winter season and stave off some of the trainer riding.
One nice thing about cross races is that there are more categories than road racing. I can race beginner 35+ to start. Races start in late September.
How am I going to mount my powertap on a singlespeed cross bike though??? HA
Monday, June 29, 2009
Cow TT #21
Everyone (all four of us) was within 45 seconds of each other with three of us in the 25mph range and one in the 26. Strong group.
Here's how my ride shook out:
Route 589
2:49
268 watts
24.2 mph
Peterson Road - into the headwind
10:03 - but felt like forever
261 watts
21.1 mph!
Alcony Conover - yay no more headwind, time to wind up
1:53
274 watts
25.2mph
Ahh the tailwind of Troy-Urbana
6:44
270 watts
31.2mph!
I've got no races scheduled until July 8th's Blue Streak!
Here's how my ride shook out:
Route 589
2:49
268 watts
24.2 mph
Peterson Road - into the headwind
10:03 - but felt like forever
261 watts
21.1 mph!
Alcony Conover - yay no more headwind, time to wind up
1:53
274 watts
25.2mph
Ahh the tailwind of Troy-Urbana
6:44
270 watts
31.2mph!
I've got no races scheduled until July 8th's Blue Streak!
Monday, June 22, 2009
#20 Ohio State time trial championship
After the USA Cycling changed the master's tt to 16 miles I decided that my goal race of the year would be the state time trial. Knowing early on that it would be on a flat course helped! Even though my training has been terrible due to health/work/lack of time issues/fat ass, at least I have been feeling pretty good just about every time I ride my time trial bike. On a side note, just about every ride on my road bike has been for crap.
Around 110 riders were registered for the time trial in Versailles and it was awesome that they closed the road at the start/finish! It made for kind of a professional feel to the event...well as professional as I can dream of. The juniors went first but I was the 7th adult to start on the day. Seeing the quality of the field ahead of me (Gary Painter, Peter Wimburg, etc) I knew I would be lucky at best to pass anyone on the day. Seeing the quality of the people behind me scared me enough as well!
The 'out' portion of the course went south then east for 9.something miles, all with the wind at our backs. Felt really good and my average was almost 27 at the turn around. I did pass my one minute man around 7 miles in. The turn around was on a slight down grade so we had to jut up a little rise immediately. Ouch. Into the now head wind. Ouch ouch. The ride back was a struggle fighting the breeze. It wasn't bad, but just enough to matter to me and I averaged only right at 23 on the return half for an overall average right around 25. Right around my typical speed.
This was good enough for the win in my age group!
Full disclosure time
In the 35-39 age group there were 5 people. I beat three of them and the person who beat me was from Indiana and was not eligible for a medal. But I don't care, gold is gold is gold.
In checking my data I was happy to see a decent power average for a course this long. It's getting close now to my old averages for shorter tt's of last year.
That makes 6 wins on the year, one better than last year and several more races to go.
Around 110 riders were registered for the time trial in Versailles and it was awesome that they closed the road at the start/finish! It made for kind of a professional feel to the event...well as professional as I can dream of. The juniors went first but I was the 7th adult to start on the day. Seeing the quality of the field ahead of me (Gary Painter, Peter Wimburg, etc) I knew I would be lucky at best to pass anyone on the day. Seeing the quality of the people behind me scared me enough as well!
The 'out' portion of the course went south then east for 9.something miles, all with the wind at our backs. Felt really good and my average was almost 27 at the turn around. I did pass my one minute man around 7 miles in. The turn around was on a slight down grade so we had to jut up a little rise immediately. Ouch. Into the now head wind. Ouch ouch. The ride back was a struggle fighting the breeze. It wasn't bad, but just enough to matter to me and I averaged only right at 23 on the return half for an overall average right around 25. Right around my typical speed.
This was good enough for the win in my age group!
Full disclosure time
In the 35-39 age group there were 5 people. I beat three of them and the person who beat me was from Indiana and was not eligible for a medal. But I don't care, gold is gold is gold.
In checking my data I was happy to see a decent power average for a course this long. It's getting close now to my old averages for shorter tt's of last year.
That makes 6 wins on the year, one better than last year and several more races to go.
Monday, June 15, 2009
Interesting to me only
Since I started racing bikes, we use the age we will be on December 31st of the current year. So all year, I've been 39 where it relates to racing. I actually turn 39 tomorrow. What does this mean? Well, I've got a short (as in 6 miles) race tomorrow so I don't know how I'm going to get my "39" miles in that's required via some unwritten rule.
Ok, so that wasn't even interesting to me.
Ok, so that wasn't even interesting to me.
Saturday, June 13, 2009
#19 Colavita TT June
Crappy feeling on the warm up. I warmed on the trainer and just didn't feel "it", whatever "it" may be.
Anyway, it was a perfect condition day. There was a slight tailwind going out so I figured there would be some fast times since it's longer that way than the trip back home. I started 11th with some good riders ahead of me. I only caught two riders on the day. Usually, I try to make the turnaround in 16 minutes and I was at 15:40-ish. That was nice. I pushed as hard as I could into the slight headwind and hit a time of 28:52, which knocked 9 seconds off my fastest time set last September. Average was a shade over 25.
So I won some Heed and a pair of sunglasses. Having a prescription and not able to wear non-Rx, I traded to the glasses to Shane who won a helmet. Perfect!
Anyway, it was a perfect condition day. There was a slight tailwind going out so I figured there would be some fast times since it's longer that way than the trip back home. I started 11th with some good riders ahead of me. I only caught two riders on the day. Usually, I try to make the turnaround in 16 minutes and I was at 15:40-ish. That was nice. I pushed as hard as I could into the slight headwind and hit a time of 28:52, which knocked 9 seconds off my fastest time set last September. Average was a shade over 25.
So I won some Heed and a pair of sunglasses. Having a prescription and not able to wear non-Rx, I traded to the glasses to Shane who won a helmet. Perfect!
Sunday, June 7, 2009
Groveport TT #18
This is my fourth consecutive year racing this course.
In 2006 my average was 23.9
In 2007 my average was 24.19 (time of 58:31)
In 2008 my average was 24.53 (time of 57:57)
I knocked some 43 seconds off my best time and my average said 24.6 via the powertap.
This course is fun and hard, but does not suit my strength. The front half is some rollers where I saw 16mph on my computer at one point. Ouch. Bunch of false flat type roads too. The return half is less rolling (pretty flat) but had loads of false flats.
I ended up 5th in my division. Even in the cat 4 group there were some fast times with the winner of our group in the 54-minute range. The overall winner was in the 28+ mph range with a time in the high 49-minute range (former national champ Paul Martin).
Next up is Blue Streak on Wednesday followed by the Colavita TT this Saturday.
This was the first long time trial on my new saddle. I'm walking a bit gingerly at the moment, kind of like a cowboy. Should be fine for riding tomorrow with some bag balm. Have I mentioned that I really don't like Champion's new chamois?
In 2006 my average was 23.9
In 2007 my average was 24.19 (time of 58:31)
In 2008 my average was 24.53 (time of 57:57)
I knocked some 43 seconds off my best time and my average said 24.6 via the powertap.
This course is fun and hard, but does not suit my strength. The front half is some rollers where I saw 16mph on my computer at one point. Ouch. Bunch of false flat type roads too. The return half is less rolling (pretty flat) but had loads of false flats.
I ended up 5th in my division. Even in the cat 4 group there were some fast times with the winner of our group in the 54-minute range. The overall winner was in the 28+ mph range with a time in the high 49-minute range (former national champ Paul Martin).
Next up is Blue Streak on Wednesday followed by the Colavita TT this Saturday.
This was the first long time trial on my new saddle. I'm walking a bit gingerly at the moment, kind of like a cowboy. Should be fine for riding tomorrow with some bag balm. Have I mentioned that I really don't like Champion's new chamois?
Thursday, June 4, 2009
#17 Strawberry festival TT
That's a little more like it.
In one race I set a season high 20 second and 15 minute power and lifetime high in 5 minute power. Not sure of my result yet (announced top 2 only), but my average was 25.4 (powertap) for the 10 mile course. There were lots of good riders out there tonight.
I keep reminding myself how fast I would be had I not be carrying a 20 pound bowling ball around my waist.
The time spent the last two weeks solely on the tt bike is paying off.
OFFICIAL RESULTS:
http://www.speedy-feet.com/results.htm
5th out of 19 in the 30-44 age group
7th overall out of ~70 (I'm throwing out the tandem, recumbent and the obscure woman's time of 27mph, as that's got to be wrong)
Why do they keep spelling my last name wrong???
In one race I set a season high 20 second and 15 minute power and lifetime high in 5 minute power. Not sure of my result yet (announced top 2 only), but my average was 25.4 (powertap) for the 10 mile course. There were lots of good riders out there tonight.
I keep reminding myself how fast I would be had I not be carrying a 20 pound bowling ball around my waist.
The time spent the last two weeks solely on the tt bike is paying off.
OFFICIAL RESULTS:
http://www.speedy-feet.com/results.htm
5th out of 19 in the 30-44 age group
7th overall out of ~70 (I'm throwing out the tandem, recumbent and the obscure woman's time of 27mph, as that's got to be wrong)
Why do they keep spelling my last name wrong???
Friday, May 29, 2009
Wednesday, May 27, 2009
Cow TT #16
Saturday was the 9.1 mile Cow time trial. One mile into my warm up lap I knew this was going to hurt. I had one day off Friday after a hard six day block that included one interval session, two time trials and three hard group rides. Yeah, oops. So heading eastbound on the warm up lap was painful.
The actual race was even more painful. Going out it was a struggle to hold 23 and hitting 25 took way too much effort. That's when I shifted from singing songs to myself to talking to myself. That's never good! I felt a little better on the short southbound section knowing that once I turned right again it would be easy sailing. The ride back home was 28 mph easy. My overall average for the 9.1 was 25.1 (powertap measured). Again I'll say when I have a bad day but can still average 25, it's not really that bad of a day. I was just worn out.
That being said, this week is sort of a rest week with a 40k tt on the schedule for this Sunday in Ft Wayne, Indiana. Didn't ride Monday or Tuesday and Sunday's ride was just an hour on the tt bike at a moderate pace to get used to being aero for that long. I think that's what today's ride is going to bring.
The actual race was even more painful. Going out it was a struggle to hold 23 and hitting 25 took way too much effort. That's when I shifted from singing songs to myself to talking to myself. That's never good! I felt a little better on the short southbound section knowing that once I turned right again it would be easy sailing. The ride back home was 28 mph easy. My overall average for the 9.1 was 25.1 (powertap measured). Again I'll say when I have a bad day but can still average 25, it's not really that bad of a day. I was just worn out.
That being said, this week is sort of a rest week with a 40k tt on the schedule for this Sunday in Ft Wayne, Indiana. Didn't ride Monday or Tuesday and Sunday's ride was just an hour on the tt bike at a moderate pace to get used to being aero for that long. I think that's what today's ride is going to bring.
Tuesday, May 19, 2009
Speedy feet TT #15
I decided to race up north instead of down south today. I was in a hurry and had both of my dogs to make sure they didn't get overheated, resulting in a limited warm up...
Am I out of excuses for my 2nd place finish (out of 25 or so riders)? ha ha, I got beat by 0.5 mph average so my coming to a complete stop to avoid running over a goose is moot.
Anyway, I had my season best 15 minute power which was nice and averaged 25.0 but I don't remember how long the course was...maybe 7 miles or a little longer. I kept a lower cadence for some reason, like I didn't have the right gear. I was probably chugging 80 rpm or something. That was interesting and led to a slightly lower (but expected) heart rate average.
You have to expect the bad while racing on an open bike path with dogs, kids and geese.
Running TT tally:
6 time trials
4 wins
2 second places
Am I out of excuses for my 2nd place finish (out of 25 or so riders)? ha ha, I got beat by 0.5 mph average so my coming to a complete stop to avoid running over a goose is moot.
Anyway, I had my season best 15 minute power which was nice and averaged 25.0 but I don't remember how long the course was...maybe 7 miles or a little longer. I kept a lower cadence for some reason, like I didn't have the right gear. I was probably chugging 80 rpm or something. That was interesting and led to a slightly lower (but expected) heart rate average.
You have to expect the bad while racing on an open bike path with dogs, kids and geese.
Running TT tally:
6 time trials
4 wins
2 second places
Saturday, May 16, 2009
May's Colavita time trial #14
No thunderstorm!
This was the latest I've ever arrived at a time trial. My brain must not be working right as I usually am the first person there - today there were at least a dozen cars in the lot. My lack of brain is becoming disturbing. Being late, I was 19th to go off (out of around 50 riders).
The rain started to come down during my trainer warm-up, but by then it was getting time to pack up and head to the start house.
A guy on a sweet, brand new Fuji TT bike was just ahead of me. Good rabbit. Out on the road, there was a little head wind and I hit the turn around at 17 minutes passing four people in the process (including the Fuji). The return (shorter) trip had me about 12minutes40. Front side I averaged less than 23 but on the back side it was over 27 for a 24.5 average on the day. Certainly not my best effort and I was kind of pissed when I realized that I felt pretty decent within 10 minute of finishing. That means I didn't go hard enough.
The end result was good enough for first place in my division. Not that my division had a whole bunch of riders, but whatever. Finished 9th overall out of the 50.
The all-time record was broken today. 24:57! That's about 4 minutes faster than my best ever time.
This was the latest I've ever arrived at a time trial. My brain must not be working right as I usually am the first person there - today there were at least a dozen cars in the lot. My lack of brain is becoming disturbing. Being late, I was 19th to go off (out of around 50 riders).
The rain started to come down during my trainer warm-up, but by then it was getting time to pack up and head to the start house.
A guy on a sweet, brand new Fuji TT bike was just ahead of me. Good rabbit. Out on the road, there was a little head wind and I hit the turn around at 17 minutes passing four people in the process (including the Fuji). The return (shorter) trip had me about 12minutes40. Front side I averaged less than 23 but on the back side it was over 27 for a 24.5 average on the day. Certainly not my best effort and I was kind of pissed when I realized that I felt pretty decent within 10 minute of finishing. That means I didn't go hard enough.
The end result was good enough for first place in my division. Not that my division had a whole bunch of riders, but whatever. Finished 9th overall out of the 50.
The all-time record was broken today. 24:57! That's about 4 minutes faster than my best ever time.
Friday, May 15, 2009
Update
Well I didn't race Tuesday even though it was a nice evening. Since I didn't work in Cincinnati, I felt no need to drive 1.5 hours each way for a 10 miler. I opted for one of the crappiest rides I've ever had instead. Almost literally. At the one hour mark (and 30 minutes from home), my stomach was in serious jeopardy. Luckily, I was able to hoof it home in time.
Wednesday's race was a washout (for me at least). I was at a client's office at 4 getting ready to leave when a nice thunderstorm hit Troy. So I worked more. Around 6 when I got home, the weather was actually decent. Crap. No riding Wednesday.
No riding Thursday. Enough said. Not a good day.
Today was nice enough and I had a spare hour to hit the time trial bike for a warm up for tomorrow's TT in Greenville. Basically, it was another "getting to know you" ride on the Specialized working on keeping my knees in and chin down. Due to the wind from the south, my north ride up Peters Pike was a steady 30-32mph.
The TT bike is cleaned up and ready to roll. Tomorrow is looking thunderstormy though but I have the season series to worry about so I'm racing rain or shine.
In exciting news (to me only), I'm going to get my Trek out of storage and get it ready for crit season. It's never seen a race and hasn't seen the road in anger in over two years. It needs new shifters (9 speed to 10 conversion) and some bar tape. I have a cassette, chain and powertap mounting kit, so it's going to be a low cost upgrade.
Wednesday's race was a washout (for me at least). I was at a client's office at 4 getting ready to leave when a nice thunderstorm hit Troy. So I worked more. Around 6 when I got home, the weather was actually decent. Crap. No riding Wednesday.
No riding Thursday. Enough said. Not a good day.
Today was nice enough and I had a spare hour to hit the time trial bike for a warm up for tomorrow's TT in Greenville. Basically, it was another "getting to know you" ride on the Specialized working on keeping my knees in and chin down. Due to the wind from the south, my north ride up Peters Pike was a steady 30-32mph.
The TT bike is cleaned up and ready to roll. Tomorrow is looking thunderstormy though but I have the season series to worry about so I'm racing rain or shine.
In exciting news (to me only), I'm going to get my Trek out of storage and get it ready for crit season. It's never seen a race and hasn't seen the road in anger in over two years. It needs new shifters (9 speed to 10 conversion) and some bar tape. I have a cassette, chain and powertap mounting kit, so it's going to be a low cost upgrade.
Monday, May 11, 2009
Lucky race #13 Germantown
...lasted 12 minutes. 1/4 mile of downhill followed by 1/4 mile of uphill. The downhill featured a turn that I could not manage and got gapped. Ended up getting pulled after 7 laps out of 25.
Probably missing Cleve's tomorrow because I'm not going to be in Cincinnati.
Blue Streak is Wednesday and the Colavita TT is Saturday so I can get some racing in.
Probably missing Cleve's tomorrow because I'm not going to be in Cincinnati.
Blue Streak is Wednesday and the Colavita TT is Saturday so I can get some racing in.
Thursday, May 7, 2009
crap nutz crap yay!
CRAP:
After Sunday's race I developed a slight cough. I just thought it was the normal cough after a hard effort but it turned into a scratchy throat. Felt better for Monday's ride, but by Tuesday morning I could hardly drag my ass to West Chester.
NUTZ:
I finally made the call at 5pm to ditch the time trial and go home. One less race but I didn't want to push it since I felt like garbage to begin with.
CRAP:
Felt sick all day Wednesday and today. It felt cold in the house so I thought it was cold outside until I had to make a short road trip. It was warm so I had to ride at least a little.
YAY:
With ideal conditions for my time trial test, I felt that was the best thing to do today since I would be on and off the bike in less than an hour and the hard effort would only take 13 minutes or less. So I meandered my way down to Dog Leg and Jackson feeling pretty descent and trying to maintain form. As the picture at the top of my blog shows, I need to work on pulling my chin down a touch and was working on bringing my knees in.
Time for the interval. Up Dog Leg, right on Old Springfield, Left on Peters (had to kind of slow down for a knucklehead driver that sat too long at the stop), right on Evanston stopping just before my subdivision.
5.768 miles in 12:22 which by my powertap showed a 28.0 average. First time I've done a test at 28! Last year my best was 27.6 under similar conditions.
In full disclosure, it's not a completely accurate assessment of fitness since there was a SW wind at 9mph, but I've gone slower with more wind. But I will take it. I didn't wear my heart rate strap, but my power was where it should be for that type of effort. But also under full disclosure, I wore my normal helmet and normal kit with no shoe covers.
No riding tomorrow (work all day), but the Germantown race is Saturday. Looks to be another rough one.
After Sunday's race I developed a slight cough. I just thought it was the normal cough after a hard effort but it turned into a scratchy throat. Felt better for Monday's ride, but by Tuesday morning I could hardly drag my ass to West Chester.
NUTZ:
I finally made the call at 5pm to ditch the time trial and go home. One less race but I didn't want to push it since I felt like garbage to begin with.
CRAP:
Felt sick all day Wednesday and today. It felt cold in the house so I thought it was cold outside until I had to make a short road trip. It was warm so I had to ride at least a little.
YAY:
With ideal conditions for my time trial test, I felt that was the best thing to do today since I would be on and off the bike in less than an hour and the hard effort would only take 13 minutes or less. So I meandered my way down to Dog Leg and Jackson feeling pretty descent and trying to maintain form. As the picture at the top of my blog shows, I need to work on pulling my chin down a touch and was working on bringing my knees in.
Time for the interval. Up Dog Leg, right on Old Springfield, Left on Peters (had to kind of slow down for a knucklehead driver that sat too long at the stop), right on Evanston stopping just before my subdivision.
5.768 miles in 12:22 which by my powertap showed a 28.0 average. First time I've done a test at 28! Last year my best was 27.6 under similar conditions.
In full disclosure, it's not a completely accurate assessment of fitness since there was a SW wind at 9mph, but I've gone slower with more wind. But I will take it. I didn't wear my heart rate strap, but my power was where it should be for that type of effort. But also under full disclosure, I wore my normal helmet and normal kit with no shoe covers.
No riding tomorrow (work all day), but the Germantown race is Saturday. Looks to be another rough one.
Monday, May 4, 2009
#12 Spring Valley
9. something miles laps, 5 laps with one climb to the finish. Not steep, but long (for Ohio)
There were only about 25 cat 4's and all fields were a little low. Not sure if there were other races going on today elsewhere or what. It was a nice day, but the forecast of rain may have kept people away.
We caught the cat 3's near the end of the first lap. It's not like we were riding all that fast though. Up the first climb and surprise I got dropped and couldn't catch back. Traded pulls with two other guys (Glen from 7hills and Rick from a team I didn't recognize) for the next two laps. Being nice, we decided to regroup at the top of the climb each time (because they would have dusted me up it). I reciprocated by doing as much pulling as I could on the flats to get my TT workout in. At the start of lap four the cat 5's caught us and we sat at the back of their pack for a few miles. Someone attacked and popped Rick off the back. Near the end of the fourth lap, which was the last lap for the cat 5's Glen and I slowed down a bit to let them finish. Glen was done by the end of that lap anyway, so I pulled most of the lap number five. Other than cramping, I felt ok so it wasn't a problem to pull so much.
In a show of gratitude and respect, Glen told me since I was pulling him around, he wouldn't pass me up the hill just to finish ahead of me. It's not that we were in a break battling for first place, but I still appreciated the respect. So he coasted up the hill and I rode in for 21st place.
I finished and I wasn't last. Small victory in what is turning out to be a very hard year.
Tuesday looks to be a nice day, so I'll be heading down for the Cleve's TT unless something comes up.
There were only about 25 cat 4's and all fields were a little low. Not sure if there were other races going on today elsewhere or what. It was a nice day, but the forecast of rain may have kept people away.
We caught the cat 3's near the end of the first lap. It's not like we were riding all that fast though. Up the first climb and surprise I got dropped and couldn't catch back. Traded pulls with two other guys (Glen from 7hills and Rick from a team I didn't recognize) for the next two laps. Being nice, we decided to regroup at the top of the climb each time (because they would have dusted me up it). I reciprocated by doing as much pulling as I could on the flats to get my TT workout in. At the start of lap four the cat 5's caught us and we sat at the back of their pack for a few miles. Someone attacked and popped Rick off the back. Near the end of the fourth lap, which was the last lap for the cat 5's Glen and I slowed down a bit to let them finish. Glen was done by the end of that lap anyway, so I pulled most of the lap number five. Other than cramping, I felt ok so it wasn't a problem to pull so much.
In a show of gratitude and respect, Glen told me since I was pulling him around, he wouldn't pass me up the hill just to finish ahead of me. It's not that we were in a break battling for first place, but I still appreciated the respect. So he coasted up the hill and I rode in for 21st place.
I finished and I wasn't last. Small victory in what is turning out to be a very hard year.
Tuesday looks to be a nice day, so I'll be heading down for the Cleve's TT unless something comes up.
Wednesday, April 29, 2009
Update
Not that it means anything to anyone but myself but in reviewing the rules based on one of the time trials that I've done, I should have actually been awarded first place due to an age related snafu. Regulations from the promoter state that the age group category is based on your age as of 12-31-09, putting the guy in front of me in the 40-49 group.
So that's three wins, one second place in time trials and a whole bunch of crap in road races.
So that's three wins, one second place in time trials and a whole bunch of crap in road races.
Monday, April 27, 2009
Cow TT #10 Gettysburg #11
May as well combine these two into one post because it's going to be a short one.
As of Friday afternoon, I thought I was going to have to jet to Michigan for the weekend knocking me out of two races. With only about an hour to ride, I took the specialized out for a hard 12 minute interval. Averaged 27 something.
Then I found out I wasn't going to Michigan...
The Cow TT on Saturday was rough with only one small section of pure tailwind. The rest was either cross or head which made for some hard riding. Though my average wasn't great, it was good enough for 2nd on the day. For those keeping track, it's two wins and two 2nd's in 4 tt's this year. Good ego stroke.
Ego stroke gone because...
On to Sunday's Gettysburg road race. 14 mile laps with loads of head wind. I got dropped 3 miles (3, yes three) into it as the field was strung out and I just couldn't hang. Rode the next 25 miles by myself and called it a day. I wanted to call it a day after the first lap, but I forced myself into another loop. No way could I force myself into a third. Four straight days of hard riding put the screws to me.
Next up is Spring Valley, hosted by One Call Now (my team).
As of Friday afternoon, I thought I was going to have to jet to Michigan for the weekend knocking me out of two races. With only about an hour to ride, I took the specialized out for a hard 12 minute interval. Averaged 27 something.
Then I found out I wasn't going to Michigan...
The Cow TT on Saturday was rough with only one small section of pure tailwind. The rest was either cross or head which made for some hard riding. Though my average wasn't great, it was good enough for 2nd on the day. For those keeping track, it's two wins and two 2nd's in 4 tt's this year. Good ego stroke.
Ego stroke gone because...
On to Sunday's Gettysburg road race. 14 mile laps with loads of head wind. I got dropped 3 miles (3, yes three) into it as the field was strung out and I just couldn't hang. Rode the next 25 miles by myself and called it a day. I wanted to call it a day after the first lap, but I forced myself into another loop. No way could I force myself into a third. Four straight days of hard riding put the screws to me.
Next up is Spring Valley, hosted by One Call Now (my team).
Monday, April 20, 2009
Vandervorts corner road race #9
Probably shouldn't even bother.
Each time up the first riser there was small attacks that lasted past the right hand turn and into the left hand bend through the first overpass. I died the third time that happened. After blowing up, I lost interest and with my legs being jelly I called it a day after 3 laps.
My old bike got in a wreck. Luckily, I was not the person riding it.
Each time up the first riser there was small attacks that lasted past the right hand turn and into the left hand bend through the first overpass. I died the third time that happened. After blowing up, I lost interest and with my legs being jelly I called it a day after 3 laps.
My old bike got in a wreck. Luckily, I was not the person riding it.
Saturday, April 18, 2009
Colavita TT April #8
Saturday's race had absolutely perfect conditions for the time trial. Warm and relatively windless. Over 70 people were in attendance and I was 20th to go. I think the slight breeze became a little wind as people who rode late were telling me about it where it was relatively non existent on my ride.
It's a nice feeling hitting the turn around at less than 16 minutes, especially with a slight tail wind for the shorter ride home. My overall time (power tap measured) was 29:08, seven seconds off my all time best that I had last year. Not bad considering I'm much more out of shape than last year. My average was right around 25. The time was good enough for 2nd place in my division. My new position and new front wheel are carrying me through the lack of fitness.
Tomorrow is Vandervort's corner and another butt kicking in what looks like a rainy race. Luckily, it's not a technical course, but if it's windy AND rainy, it's going to suck.
Sushi night tonight!
It's a nice feeling hitting the turn around at less than 16 minutes, especially with a slight tail wind for the shorter ride home. My overall time (power tap measured) was 29:08, seven seconds off my all time best that I had last year. Not bad considering I'm much more out of shape than last year. My average was right around 25. The time was good enough for 2nd place in my division. My new position and new front wheel are carrying me through the lack of fitness.
Tomorrow is Vandervort's corner and another butt kicking in what looks like a rainy race. Luckily, it's not a technical course, but if it's windy AND rainy, it's going to suck.
Sushi night tonight!
Sunday, April 12, 2009
Deer Creek #7
Another day, another race. Of the three times I rode this week, every ride was a race. Sunday at Hueston Woods, Wednesday at Blue Streak and Saturday at Deer Creek. A metric assload of riders were there, and I foolishly thought I could hide out in the group. Nope, 10 miles: someone attacks, I get my season high 20 second power AND get dropped. Rode the next two laps with a couple of other guys and the final lap by myself. 48 miles in 2:24 with a headwind both ways (it felt like).
Three rides this week...
Last place
First place
Last place
This bodes well for the time trial Saturday but does not look good for the road race on Sunday.
Three rides this week...
Last place
First place
Last place
This bodes well for the time trial Saturday but does not look good for the road race on Sunday.
Thursday, April 9, 2009
Blue streak April #6
Wednesday evening met the 43 of us with a stiff wind out of the west. That's both good and bad as the time trial starts off heading west (bad), but has the longest section heading East (good), but finishes heading back west (suckatrash).
I arrived early in what is not a shock to anyone and registered 10th with start time of 6:05 with the 30 second interval for riders. Didn't really warm up too great as I forgot my trainer and pedaled circles around the salt filled parking lot praying I wouldn't blow a tire. There's no holder at blue streak so it's necessary for the sake of saving seconds to be able to clip in quick. Luckily, I did. The start into the wind sucked. Highest one minute power a minute out of the gate. Passed my 30 second guy even before the first right turn. Of the 9 people that started ahead of me I passed 6 overall. Felt decent on the back stretch, not killing power but having a decent speed due to the tail wind.
The end result was that I was 0.3mph off of my speed the only other time I rode this tt and I was in shape then. My average was 24.4 that put me first in my age group and 6th overall. Really I was 8th fastest but two people ahead of me were on HPV's (so they don't count). Out of 43 people, I'll take 8th.
On a HUGE bummer note, I found out that Master's Nationals time trial is only going to be 16 miles!? I'm not wasting the time, money and energy for that. It's a $60 race fee and a 3 hour drive, plus hotel.
Who knows where it will be next year, but oh well.
Next up: Saturday at Deer Creek. Time to get my ass handed to me (again).
I arrived early in what is not a shock to anyone and registered 10th with start time of 6:05 with the 30 second interval for riders. Didn't really warm up too great as I forgot my trainer and pedaled circles around the salt filled parking lot praying I wouldn't blow a tire. There's no holder at blue streak so it's necessary for the sake of saving seconds to be able to clip in quick. Luckily, I did. The start into the wind sucked. Highest one minute power a minute out of the gate. Passed my 30 second guy even before the first right turn. Of the 9 people that started ahead of me I passed 6 overall. Felt decent on the back stretch, not killing power but having a decent speed due to the tail wind.
The end result was that I was 0.3mph off of my speed the only other time I rode this tt and I was in shape then. My average was 24.4 that put me first in my age group and 6th overall. Really I was 8th fastest but two people ahead of me were on HPV's (so they don't count). Out of 43 people, I'll take 8th.
On a HUGE bummer note, I found out that Master's Nationals time trial is only going to be 16 miles!? I'm not wasting the time, money and energy for that. It's a $60 race fee and a 3 hour drive, plus hotel.
Who knows where it will be next year, but oh well.
Next up: Saturday at Deer Creek. Time to get my ass handed to me (again).
Monday, April 6, 2009
Hueston Woods road race #5
First road race of the year. Conditions were absolutely perfect. Decent sized field of what I'm guessing to be north of 30 riders. So what went wrong? Damn near everything. On the finish line hill on the first lap I had a mechanical (chain jumping) and that blew any momentum I could have had. After then getting dropped, I nearly made my way back to the field and as luck would have it someone attacked JUST as I approached. Field strung out and that was all she wrote. I spent the next 1.5 hours time trialling. I finished the race in 1:58 for the 38 rolling miles and checking the powertap of a team mate who finished with the field, he finished in 1:53.
In talking with another team mate after the race, I commented on my chain and said that the chain was jumping in my favorite cog for the last few days...he asked how many miles I had on it and then my head turned into a jackass. I have around 20,000 miles on this cassette. It's the original from when I bought the Orca. Time to place an order.
Anyway, that race was a complete disappointment. I understand that I'm not a lightweight climber (hill top finish, three climbs per lap), but I thought I should have done better. The good news is that I have two more races this week (weather permitting) to redeem myself.
Do I look dead or what?
In talking with another team mate after the race, I commented on my chain and said that the chain was jumping in my favorite cog for the last few days...he asked how many miles I had on it and then my head turned into a jackass. I have around 20,000 miles on this cassette. It's the original from when I bought the Orca. Time to place an order.
Anyway, that race was a complete disappointment. I understand that I'm not a lightweight climber (hill top finish, three climbs per lap), but I thought I should have done better. The good news is that I have two more races this week (weather permitting) to redeem myself.
Do I look dead or what?
Sunday, March 22, 2009
March Colavita Time Trial - race #4
The first outdoor time trial of the year. Conditions were cold and not conducive to fast times but 60 people showed up for the 20k TT. My start time was 9:12 so there were plenty of people to try to chase down. Kyle Lyman started a minute behind me and I knew it was matter of when, not if, he would pass me. Kyle did the race on a road bike with clip ons. Team Dayton needs to get him a time trial bike, sky's the limit with this guy.
Anyway, it took about 11 minutes for Kyle to pass me, but by that time I had already passed two riders. I hit the turn a little slower than I would have liked, in route to an over time that I wasn't really thrilled with but it turned out to be the fastest time in the 30-39 age group and 4th fastest overall. My average was 23.8 mph. I beat Jim Matson by one second where he beat me by a couple of minutes at the final TT of 2008. I had never beat him before. That's one more checked off the list of people I've never beaten in a TT. Hopefully more will fall.
I ended last season with a time trial win, so it was nice to start this year off with one. Overall, my power was low and my time was slow, but given my (lack of) training and the weather conditions, I'll take it. This was also my first real run with the new position. I like it. More aero, less power required at previous speeds and less sliding to the front.
Next up as far as time trials go is Blue Streak. Next (first) road race is in 13 days at Hueston Woods.
Anyway, it took about 11 minutes for Kyle to pass me, but by that time I had already passed two riders. I hit the turn a little slower than I would have liked, in route to an over time that I wasn't really thrilled with but it turned out to be the fastest time in the 30-39 age group and 4th fastest overall. My average was 23.8 mph. I beat Jim Matson by one second where he beat me by a couple of minutes at the final TT of 2008. I had never beat him before. That's one more checked off the list of people I've never beaten in a TT. Hopefully more will fall.
I ended last season with a time trial win, so it was nice to start this year off with one. Overall, my power was low and my time was slow, but given my (lack of) training and the weather conditions, I'll take it. This was also my first real run with the new position. I like it. More aero, less power required at previous speeds and less sliding to the front.
Next up as far as time trials go is Blue Streak. Next (first) road race is in 13 days at Hueston Woods.
Thursday, March 5, 2009
Monday, March 2, 2009
And I forgot about Blue Streak!
http://www.daytoncyclingclub.org/bluestreak.htm
According Speedy-feet's website, there will be six blue streak time trials this year.
Yep, more time trials.
According Speedy-feet's website, there will be six blue streak time trials this year.
Yep, more time trials.
Series 1 for 1
Turned out that even though I missed the final time trial due to rash/sickness, I did end up winning the series. Three other people had faster times than I did, but didn't race the required minimum of three times. So I won. That makes one of four time trial series I intend to win this year. We'll see. On that note, work and sickness has seriously undermined my training for the last two weeks of February. The first real time trial test is March 21, so I need to build for that. The camp that's the weekend prior should be a nice season kickoff.
That's all I have to say.
That's all I have to say.
Sunday, February 22, 2009
Well nutz
Going to have to wait a couple of weeks to get race #4 in. My scheduled race time is about 40 minutes from now and I'm sitting here typing instead of warming up in Centerville. It's been a weird week so I decided to bag the race. Unfortunately, I have to bag the first road race of the year which is next Saturday due to schedule conflicts. Along with the hives/rash/wtf's, I caught a cold. I've been stuffing my gob full of just about every drug in the house to try and ward it off but it didn't take. Being around too many people (which is never fun for me) and too many meals out in the public doomed me to illness. Not enough riding either as I missed two days this week.
Anyway, enough of that bullshit whining. The hives are on the decline and I'm about to spend a couple of hours on the trainer as soon as my coffee kicks in. I also just found out that there will be 21 people attending our team training camp in March! That should be a good time.
This week looks to be another long one with limited riding time. Hopefully, I'll feel good enough to spend what little riding time I have going hard with intervals.
Anyway, enough of that bullshit whining. The hives are on the decline and I'm about to spend a couple of hours on the trainer as soon as my coffee kicks in. I also just found out that there will be 21 people attending our team training camp in March! That should be a good time.
This week looks to be another long one with limited riding time. Hopefully, I'll feel good enough to spend what little riding time I have going hard with intervals.
Tuesday, February 17, 2009
Gear 2009
No pictures yet as I've no idea where my camera is right now, but I finally took delivery of my 2009 team kit. While Champion Systems gear isn't for looooong term use, for season by season gear you really can't beat it.
This year's haul included:
Casual Jacket
Cyclocross skinsuit
Speedsuit
short sleeve jersey
bibs
Probably the coolest (warmest) piece is the cross skinsuit. It's long sleeve and the whole thing minus the chamois is fleece. This will come in handy during the spring campaign.
The speedsuit, also long sleeve, is a new addition to CS's lineup. In various places it has a dimpled-esque material. No collar (the normal skinsuit has one) and no key pocket behind the neck. It's extremely light. We'll see if that along with everything else I've done translates into faster times this year.
The casual jacket is nice. It's not for riding as it's loose and has no back pockets. It will be nice for the pre race and post race fastivities (AKA standing in the registration line and hanging around the finish line)
All the gear is here, the bike is upgraded and finished, now all that's left is to ride it fast. Giddy up
This year's haul included:
Casual Jacket
Cyclocross skinsuit
Speedsuit
short sleeve jersey
bibs
Probably the coolest (warmest) piece is the cross skinsuit. It's long sleeve and the whole thing minus the chamois is fleece. This will come in handy during the spring campaign.
The speedsuit, also long sleeve, is a new addition to CS's lineup. In various places it has a dimpled-esque material. No collar (the normal skinsuit has one) and no key pocket behind the neck. It's extremely light. We'll see if that along with everything else I've done translates into faster times this year.
The casual jacket is nice. It's not for riding as it's loose and has no back pockets. It will be nice for the pre race and post race fastivities (AKA standing in the registration line and hanging around the finish line)
All the gear is here, the bike is upgraded and finished, now all that's left is to ride it fast. Giddy up
Monday, February 16, 2009
Seeing red
My body is rebelling against me for some reason. Around 10-15 percent of my body is covered in hives or some such shit. Luckily, other than being one itchy bastard, I feel fine. I reviewed my diet (in the loosest sense of the word) and have had nothing out of the ordinary since way before these hives started. For some reason I think it's stress.
I'm trying not to let it affect training, but when sweat hits a spot that I've stupidly scratched too much.....oy vey. This weekend is the last of the indoor time trials and we'll see how that goes. I'm now needing to ramp up my time on the bike because the season is about to begin. Depending on weather/schedule/itchyness I may do a road race on February 28th. If not, the season really begins with the mid March training camp - which I hope due to schedule that I can attend - and the spring series soon after.
As for the Tour of California, it was odd watching a Woman's circuit race instead yesterday.
I'm trying not to let it affect training, but when sweat hits a spot that I've stupidly scratched too much.....oy vey. This weekend is the last of the indoor time trials and we'll see how that goes. I'm now needing to ramp up my time on the bike because the season is about to begin. Depending on weather/schedule/itchyness I may do a road race on February 28th. If not, the season really begins with the mid March training camp - which I hope due to schedule that I can attend - and the spring series soon after.
As for the Tour of California, it was odd watching a Woman's circuit race instead yesterday.
Tuesday, February 10, 2009
Ride the bike
Today was a nice day out - kind of. One of those days it was nice to be a group because I would probably have pussied out sooner than later. Three of us did last year's ramble route as I wanted to get some rollers in and get two hours in. Rudy road was the big suck bomb. That road hurts and with a strong head wind it hurts worse. Being in the next to last gear and doing about 12mph while pushing over 300 watts is not a fun feeling.
Now my bike has a case of the grimes and I need to get that fixed before tomorrow's (probable) indoor ride. I rode in the hurricane last year and I have no desire to repeat that business.
It's always cool to get out there with a group and just ride the bike. That's why I do it. It was also nice to hit those roads again. I had figured that last year would be my last time riding those roads due to the inevitable move. Well, that probably won't happen until summer or later, so I'll get some more chances to ride out there in the coming months. Group ride season can't get here too soon.
Now my bike has a case of the grimes and I need to get that fixed before tomorrow's (probable) indoor ride. I rode in the hurricane last year and I have no desire to repeat that business.
It's always cool to get out there with a group and just ride the bike. That's why I do it. It was also nice to hit those roads again. I had figured that last year would be my last time riding those roads due to the inevitable move. Well, that probably won't happen until summer or later, so I'll get some more chances to ride out there in the coming months. Group ride season can't get here too soon.
Monday, February 9, 2009
2-8-09 #3
Sunday was the third of four indoor time trials at Neo Limits, put on by Team Dayton. After the snafu of two weeks ago, I was curious to see how I would do. My flight consisted of only three people, Kyle Lyman, John Farris and me. This was going to hurt. Kyle looked effortless as it looked like he averaged 400 watts for the first half. I tried to remain within myself yet still push a little harder than usual. John was between us the whole time.
I'm not exactly sure about the other's times, but Kyle finished about a minute before I did and John shortly after. I ended up with my best time ever in the three years and nine races on this simulated course, with a time of 16:21. This beats my previous time from two week ago by 34 seconds and beats my previous overall best by around 10 seconds.
In the course of the event, I had a season high five minute and fifteen minute power outputs. My fifteen minute high already is tied with my high from all of 2007.
After I got home, it was too nice to not go out for another ride. On the verge of cramping from the time trial, I kept it easy for an hour and got in another seventeen-point-something miles. Today looks like another day that I can get on the road! Schedule and weather will permit this. Sweet.
I'm not exactly sure about the other's times, but Kyle finished about a minute before I did and John shortly after. I ended up with my best time ever in the three years and nine races on this simulated course, with a time of 16:21. This beats my previous time from two week ago by 34 seconds and beats my previous overall best by around 10 seconds.
In the course of the event, I had a season high five minute and fifteen minute power outputs. My fifteen minute high already is tied with my high from all of 2007.
After I got home, it was too nice to not go out for another ride. On the verge of cramping from the time trial, I kept it easy for an hour and got in another seventeen-point-something miles. Today looks like another day that I can get on the road! Schedule and weather will permit this. Sweet.
Friday, February 6, 2009
Has it really been that long?
I FINALLY put rubber to road today and took my Transition out for an hour (intervals, of course). When I got back home and filled out my spreadsheet I looked to see that not only was this my first road ride of the year, but the first time I've been on the road since November 23rd! Yikes.
In working the intervals, I had no real goal wattage as I just wanted to be out there testing the position in the real world (IE: not on the trainer!). Things went smooth.
Glad to be back out there.
In working the intervals, I had no real goal wattage as I just wanted to be out there testing the position in the real world (IE: not on the trainer!). Things went smooth.
Glad to be back out there.
2009 time trial schedule
It appears that the schedule is rounding out nicely. I've found a few more longer distance time trials to wind me up for Nationals and there are several shorter ones to keep me sharp. There are also several series going on for 2009. These are nice when you're comparing your power meter files to track your progress throughout the season.
QCW announced a 40k series, but it says it for "members" only. No member jokes please, but I'm going to find out if I can ride these. I also assume there will be the Speedy Feet Tuesday series. If I'm living near Dayton, I'll do that, if I'm down south I'll do the QCW 10 miler.
MARCH
14 QCW 40k
21 Colavita 20k
APRIL
11 QCW 40k
18 Colavita 20k
25 Cow (10 mile?)
MAY
Every Tuesday is QCW 10 miler
9 QCW 40k
10 Monrovia 40k
16 Colavita 20k
23 Cow TT
31 Koehlinger 40k Ft Wayne
JUNE
Every Tuesday is QCW 10 miler
7 Groveport 22.5 miles
13 Colavita 20k
21 Ohio State Championship (distance unknown)
27 Cow TT
Week of 28 - Master Nationals!
JULY
Every Tuesday QCW 10 miler
11 Colavita 20k
19 Indiana State Championship 40k
25-26 Pancake stage race (includes 11 mile ITT)
AUGUST
Every Tuesday QCW 10 miler
16 FIAC Nationals 20k
29 Cow TT
SEPTEMBER
Every Tuesday - you know the drill
19 Colavita 20k
OCTOBER
10 Colavita 20k
That's about 38-40 time trials. Now I have to figure out how to squeeze a dozen or more road races and crits in there.
QCW announced a 40k series, but it says it for "members" only. No member jokes please, but I'm going to find out if I can ride these. I also assume there will be the Speedy Feet Tuesday series. If I'm living near Dayton, I'll do that, if I'm down south I'll do the QCW 10 miler.
MARCH
14 QCW 40k
21 Colavita 20k
APRIL
11 QCW 40k
18 Colavita 20k
25 Cow (10 mile?)
MAY
Every Tuesday is QCW 10 miler
9 QCW 40k
10 Monrovia 40k
16 Colavita 20k
23 Cow TT
31 Koehlinger 40k Ft Wayne
JUNE
Every Tuesday is QCW 10 miler
7 Groveport 22.5 miles
13 Colavita 20k
21 Ohio State Championship (distance unknown)
27 Cow TT
Week of 28 - Master Nationals!
JULY
Every Tuesday QCW 10 miler
11 Colavita 20k
19 Indiana State Championship 40k
25-26 Pancake stage race (includes 11 mile ITT)
AUGUST
Every Tuesday QCW 10 miler
16 FIAC Nationals 20k
29 Cow TT
SEPTEMBER
Every Tuesday - you know the drill
19 Colavita 20k
OCTOBER
10 Colavita 20k
That's about 38-40 time trials. Now I have to figure out how to squeeze a dozen or more road races and crits in there.
Wednesday, February 4, 2009
Ride number 4
Today was my forth ride on the ISM Adamo saddle. Yesterday's ride wasn't so hot from a comfort standpoint, but I was pleased to find that I had no issue at all today. Today's workout was the hour long CTS video on time trialling (imagine that). The workout had 3~5 minute intervals and one 12 minute interval with rest in between. It's a hard workout, but then again, with video workouts you're on your own for exactly how hard you make it. There are about 7 weeks or so until my first TT of the year and I'm itchy to get the bike on the road. Shit, I'm itchy to get any bike on the road.
Tuesday, February 3, 2009
Take two
Talking points 1:
Two rides in on the ISM Gel saddle. It's much more comfortable than one would think. I spent most of the time during the two rides in the aero position to start getting used to the saddle AND the position.
Talking points 2:
My new wheel was ordered and should be here by Friday! I ended up with the Flashpoint FP-80 front clincher as my time trial wheel for 2009. This will complete the Transition upgrades until I decide that I need new bars or something... This also means the Hed Alps wheel can move to a permanent status on the Orca.
Talking points 3:
[yuck] It's that time of year to drop the 15 pounds because I love to freakin' eat. I meant to not gain that much in the off season. Oops, but then again, I've said that the past three years.
Talking points 4:
This is the third straight year of completely changing my winter workouts. Will this one be 'the one'?
Stay tuned.
/hungry
Two rides in on the ISM Gel saddle. It's much more comfortable than one would think. I spent most of the time during the two rides in the aero position to start getting used to the saddle AND the position.
Talking points 2:
My new wheel was ordered and should be here by Friday! I ended up with the Flashpoint FP-80 front clincher as my time trial wheel for 2009. This will complete the Transition upgrades until I decide that I need new bars or something... This also means the Hed Alps wheel can move to a permanent status on the Orca.
Talking points 3:
[yuck] It's that time of year to drop the 15 pounds because I love to freakin' eat. I meant to not gain that much in the off season. Oops, but then again, I've said that the past three years.
Talking points 4:
This is the third straight year of completely changing my winter workouts. Will this one be 'the one'?
Stay tuned.
/hungry
Monday, February 2, 2009
Good news bad news
Good news - I got my bike back from Wheelie fun
Bad news - time for another run of four minute intervals!
Good news - I got sunburn over the weekend
Bad news - I'm back in Ohio now
Good news - I'm excited to test out my new fit and saddle
Bad news - I need a nap as I didn't get much sleep last night
Good news - this post is over!
Bad news - I'm going to report back later on my ride (probably)
Bad news - time for another run of four minute intervals!
Good news - I got sunburn over the weekend
Bad news - I'm back in Ohio now
Good news - I'm excited to test out my new fit and saddle
Bad news - I need a nap as I didn't get much sleep last night
Good news - this post is over!
Bad news - I'm going to report back later on my ride (probably)
Friday, January 30, 2009
Thursday, January 29, 2009
Trading snow for sand
Not a moment too soon. Friday morning I hop on a plane to Brasilito, Costa Rica. Although I am coming back home Sunday night, at least it's some time spent without a coat on. The LOW on Saturday will be 50 degrees higher than the HIGH in Dayton, with a high of 93 for the forecast.
My task for Saturday? Walk along the beach and look at land. Maybe I could rent a bike for the day, that would be cool (and it keeps this post somewhat related to cycling).
I love my job.
My task for Saturday? Walk along the beach and look at land. Maybe I could rent a bike for the day, that would be cool (and it keeps this post somewhat related to cycling).
I love my job.
Monday, January 26, 2009
Interesting - Race number 2
More watts and a slower time lead me to scratching my newly shaved head. All four Project Velo riders had anomalies in their wattage. Three of us used Power Taps and the fourth knows her wattage pretty well. Mine was the only wattage that read higher than normal. The computrainer said I averaged 302 whereas my Power Tap read 282. I thought it was closer right after the race, but after CyclingPeaks review, it was off 20. But with the higher wattage than two weeks ago, I would have guessed a lower time, right? Wrong! 13 seconds slower. Hopefully, the issue will be taken care of before the next TT.
After that, we had our season kick off team party. We had all but 3 riders (I think) show up. One nice thing we are doing this year is a training camp. Hopefully, my schedule will be as such to make it.
After that, we had our season kick off team party. We had all but 3 riders (I think) show up. One nice thing we are doing this year is a training camp. Hopefully, my schedule will be as such to make it.
Friday, January 23, 2009
Bike fit from Wheelie Fun
Yesterday, I had the most comprehensive bike fitting that I've ever had. Bob and (new team mate) Ryan took me through three hours of fitting and bike setup on my Transition. Bob's philosophy of the day was to start me from scratch based on some measurements and work on my position by watching my (OBJECTIVE) output on the computrainer. Only when the numbers came out the same was I asked what felt better.
We started by moving my cleats back from the old FIST position then I warmed up on a computrainer based fit bike. I don't know the exact terminology, but you can get my drift. I would pedal at usual cadence (mid 90's) and Bob would ramp up the wattage and watch my spin scan. Then tweak position and repeat the ramp. Bars up and down, bars forward and back, seat up, seat down, forward, back, etc. In one position, 330 watts felt "comfortable" (340 was not) and had the best spin scan so that's where we went. We tested a new saddle (purchased!) and was reviewed with an aero helmet. The interesting thing was that I used to "hunch" down to make me more aerodynamic. Now that's not necessary and actually hurts my profile because it lifts the tail of the helmet. That will sure save my neck!
My saddle is now this. It allows me to creep a little more forward and still stay UCI compliant. I found no problem with the shape of it as it puts pressure in a whole different area than my old saddle. Hopefully, this will eliminate the numbness that comes from time trials of more than 45 minutes long. 45 minutes is the magic number for "junk numbness".
I can't wait to get it on the open road. That being said, I won't have it back in enough time for the indoor TT so I'll use the Orca for that. I wanted them to clean up all the brake and shifting cables as well as cut the steerer tube.
Absolutely would I recommend Bob for a bike fitting. As a matter of fact, as soon as I get back from Costa Rica, I'm going to have him redo my Orca.
Under full disclosure, Wheelie Fun is a new sponsor of our team. All that did was get me in door as I don't usually make it to the Lebanon area very often. After being through the fit, regardless of sponsorship or not, I would still recommend them highly.
We started by moving my cleats back from the old FIST position then I warmed up on a computrainer based fit bike. I don't know the exact terminology, but you can get my drift. I would pedal at usual cadence (mid 90's) and Bob would ramp up the wattage and watch my spin scan. Then tweak position and repeat the ramp. Bars up and down, bars forward and back, seat up, seat down, forward, back, etc. In one position, 330 watts felt "comfortable" (340 was not) and had the best spin scan so that's where we went. We tested a new saddle (purchased!) and was reviewed with an aero helmet. The interesting thing was that I used to "hunch" down to make me more aerodynamic. Now that's not necessary and actually hurts my profile because it lifts the tail of the helmet. That will sure save my neck!
My saddle is now this. It allows me to creep a little more forward and still stay UCI compliant. I found no problem with the shape of it as it puts pressure in a whole different area than my old saddle. Hopefully, this will eliminate the numbness that comes from time trials of more than 45 minutes long. 45 minutes is the magic number for "junk numbness".
I can't wait to get it on the open road. That being said, I won't have it back in enough time for the indoor TT so I'll use the Orca for that. I wanted them to clean up all the brake and shifting cables as well as cut the steerer tube.
Absolutely would I recommend Bob for a bike fitting. As a matter of fact, as soon as I get back from Costa Rica, I'm going to have him redo my Orca.
Under full disclosure, Wheelie Fun is a new sponsor of our team. All that did was get me in door as I don't usually make it to the Lebanon area very often. After being through the fit, regardless of sponsorship or not, I would still recommend them highly.
Wednesday, January 21, 2009
Special
I finally dusted off the Specialized Transition for '09 and gave it a spin on the trainer today. The first thing that came to mind is that "I was meant to ride this bike". I forgot how good the fit and feel was when I put it away however long ago. I wish I had that feeling on the road bike. Time may permit me to actually make it to Wheelie fun today to discuss that very issue.
I'm toying with the idea of taking this bike to the indoor TT this Sunday. The aero advantage won't exactly help! At least it gets me on this bike a little more. I need to "simulate the simulation" to make my final decision.
I'm toying with the idea of taking this bike to the indoor TT this Sunday. The aero advantage won't exactly help! At least it gets me on this bike a little more. I need to "simulate the simulation" to make my final decision.
Monday, January 19, 2009
The time to takes to type this post
Will be about as long as I had to ride last night. However in that short amount of time, I simulated the simulation of the 6.2 mile computrainer course.
1. Beat my previous best time by 4 seconds
2. Season high 5 minute power average
3. Season high 15 minute power average
4. Obscurely low heart rate average (15 beats lower than normal)
1. Beat my previous best time by 4 seconds
2. Season high 5 minute power average
3. Season high 15 minute power average
4. Obscurely low heart rate average (15 beats lower than normal)
Tuesday, January 13, 2009
Sign
For at least a year, I have had a message written on the dry erase board in my office. It says:
"If you never go 30mph, you'll never go 30mph"
I stared at that message for nearly an hour while I drummed out yet another set of intervals (3~5 minutes & 1~10 minutes). That got me thinking of not only killing myself but what should my 'goal' be for 2009. It's simple. Hard, but simple. My goal (wait for it) is to average 28.0 mph or better in a time trial this year.
There you go. I estimate that I'm going to have to put out 320 watts (when I get back down into the mid-160's in weight) to do this plus have favorable course and weather conditions. A tail wind couldn't hurt, but on an out and back course, that's probably not going to happen.
Maybe I should modify my sign.
"If you never go 30mph, you'll never go 30mph"
I stared at that message for nearly an hour while I drummed out yet another set of intervals (3~5 minutes & 1~10 minutes). That got me thinking of not only killing myself but what should my 'goal' be for 2009. It's simple. Hard, but simple. My goal (wait for it) is to average 28.0 mph or better in a time trial this year.
There you go. I estimate that I'm going to have to put out 320 watts (when I get back down into the mid-160's in weight) to do this plus have favorable course and weather conditions. A tail wind couldn't hurt, but on an out and back course, that's probably not going to happen.
Maybe I should modify my sign.
Monday, January 12, 2009
2009 race #1
http://www.teamdaytoncycling.com/Documents/ITTresults_1.11.09.pdf
Results are above.
Ever since early November, I have had a difficult time trying to ride. Rides have not been high quantity, so I've been shooting for high quality. I'm hoping things change by early February as my current job will slow down somewhat and my part in the clinic will gradually fade away. I think I missed my window, but I've been debating taking the rest of January off from riding, but at this point I think I've screwed the pooch in regards to time off (if I want to be at least somewhat competitive in the spring).
Anyway, back to the race itself.
I was able to secure a 9am slot because we had a clinic open house that I needed to get to as soon as possible. Four others joined me for that time slot. What was funny is that our finishing order matched how we were set up...computrainer #1 finished first, #2 finished second, etc. My time and average were about what I expected, as I finished with a time of 16:43.7 and a watt average of 289 (278 via my powertap though). First place in my age group was 16:43.3. That's a real bite in the ass!
In two weeks is the next indoor TT. I hope to make it to this one, and I hope to have a little of training in the mean time. The bad thing was that I was only able to hit the trainer for 40 minutes tonight before getting sick of it. Tomorrow at least appears on paper to be a good day to get a nice ride in (on the trainer). We'll see what happens.
Results are above.
Ever since early November, I have had a difficult time trying to ride. Rides have not been high quantity, so I've been shooting for high quality. I'm hoping things change by early February as my current job will slow down somewhat and my part in the clinic will gradually fade away. I think I missed my window, but I've been debating taking the rest of January off from riding, but at this point I think I've screwed the pooch in regards to time off (if I want to be at least somewhat competitive in the spring).
Anyway, back to the race itself.
I was able to secure a 9am slot because we had a clinic open house that I needed to get to as soon as possible. Four others joined me for that time slot. What was funny is that our finishing order matched how we were set up...computrainer #1 finished first, #2 finished second, etc. My time and average were about what I expected, as I finished with a time of 16:43.7 and a watt average of 289 (278 via my powertap though). First place in my age group was 16:43.3. That's a real bite in the ass!
In two weeks is the next indoor TT. I hope to make it to this one, and I hope to have a little of training in the mean time. The bad thing was that I was only able to hit the trainer for 40 minutes tonight before getting sick of it. Tomorrow at least appears on paper to be a good day to get a nice ride in (on the trainer). We'll see what happens.
Missed it by 'that much'
'That much' being 0.4 seconds. That's what separated 1st from 2nd place in yesterday's indoor time trial in my age group.
fuuuuuudge
fuuuuuudge
Monday, January 5, 2009
Two posts in a day, I'm on a roll
Today was a 6.2 mile computrainer simulation. A simulation of a simulation of actual riding. The encouraging news is that I had my best time by 8 seconds, beating a time I had in early November. My time was 16:12 and I set a season high in watts for 15 minutes (273). A far cry from last year's best of 311, but right now, I'll take it and run.
I'm not sure I'm going to make it to the computrainer race Sunday due to the open house, but if I do, at least with these numbers in hand, I'll go in feeling confident.
I'm not sure I'm going to make it to the computrainer race Sunday due to the open house, but if I do, at least with these numbers in hand, I'll go in feeling confident.
1-5-09
Merry happy new Christmas year.
I have minutes of downtime and how better to spend it than describing in painful detail about how I did not receive any cycling related gear as gifts?
Harumph.
Actually, it's probably a good thing that no one bought cycling related merchandise. I can hear it now, one of my relatives trying to buy a wheel for me...
Zip? Oh Zipp with two "P's"
808? Huh Can I still order an 808 even though it's not August of 2008?
Front or rear? Don't bikes have both? Campy/Shimano? WTF?
700c or 650c? 700 centimeters is almost 23 feet. Better go with 650. Oh. Huh?
Clincher or Tubular? I think it takes tubes, better go with that.
Spokes? Yes I think it needs them?
Luckily, I got money. Enough for a Zipp 808 front clincher wheel. Look out. Now that the holidays are over, I'm getting excited about the season. The first time trial (the outside variety) is in March. The 808 should be in place with an even better position by then (thanks to Wheelie Fun!)
I have minutes of downtime and how better to spend it than describing in painful detail about how I did not receive any cycling related gear as gifts?
Harumph.
Actually, it's probably a good thing that no one bought cycling related merchandise. I can hear it now, one of my relatives trying to buy a wheel for me...
Zip? Oh Zipp with two "P's"
808? Huh Can I still order an 808 even though it's not August of 2008?
Front or rear? Don't bikes have both? Campy/Shimano? WTF?
700c or 650c? 700 centimeters is almost 23 feet. Better go with 650. Oh. Huh?
Clincher or Tubular? I think it takes tubes, better go with that.
Spokes? Yes I think it needs them?
Luckily, I got money. Enough for a Zipp 808 front clincher wheel. Look out. Now that the holidays are over, I'm getting excited about the season. The first time trial (the outside variety) is in March. The 808 should be in place with an even better position by then (thanks to Wheelie Fun!)
Sunday, January 4, 2009
Why I love Clint Eastwood
“My father had a couple of kids at the beginning of the Depression. There was not much employment. Not much welfare. People barely got by. People were tougher then.”
“We live in more of a pussy generation now, where everybody’s become used to saying, “Well, how do we handle it psychologically?” In those days, you just punched the bully back and duked it out. Even if the guy was older and could push you around, at least you were respected for fighting back, and you’d be left alone from then on.”
“I don’t know if I can tell you exactly when the pussy generation started. Maybe when people started asking about the meaning of life.”
Friday, January 2, 2009
So this post isn't about cycling...
After two years of planning, six months of construction and countless "everything else" the building is done. Anyone of my regular readers (all three of you?) are welcome to come visit us for the friends and family open house next Sunday (January 11th) from noon to four. See the website for directions.
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